Ambition In Macbeth

In the play, Macbeth, written by William Shakespeare, a Scottish general is told a prophecy by three witches saying that one day he will be Scotland’s King. In this play, the events in Macbeth’s life occurred because of free will, mainly his and Lady Macbeth’s. The trio of witches did not tell Macbeth how he should become King, just that he could. So although the Witches told Macbeth he would become King, it was essentially his and Lady Macbeth’s own ambition and desire that impacted Macbeth.

First, when Macbeth was given his prophecy, the Witches did not tell him how he should become King. The Witches’ words are vague and ill-defined. “Stay, you imperfect speakers, tell me more/… Say from whence/ You owe this this strange intelligence?” (1.3 72-80). When the Witches tell Macbeth their prophecy, they leave out how he will become King. Ultimately, Macbeth is left in confusion and must make his own decisions on how he should become King, which he obviously desires. This can be shown in (1.3 144-150) “If good, why do I yield to that suggestion/ whose horrid image doth unfix my hair/ And make my seated heart knock at my ribs,/…My thoughts, whose murder yet is…” Macbeth struggles to tell if these news are good or bad. Even so, he can’t help the fact that he is tempted by

Recalling the Witches’ prophecy given to Banquo, Macbeth determined to send murdered after him at night. In order to keep his crown, he sends for Banquo and his son, Fleance, to be killed. Lady Macbeth encourages Macbeth to “do what he has to do” by basically saying that Banquo wouldn't have lived forever anyways. Lady Macbeth’s role can also be shown in 3.4 61-64, “O proper stuff!/ This is the very painting of your fear/ This is the air drawn dagger which you said/ Led you to Duncan.” During Macbeth's feast, Banquo’s ghost appears, causing Macbeth to make a scene that frightens his guest. Lady Macbeth subdues his anxiety to keep their